Keith County commissioners authorize $1,000 district court credit card

The Keith County Board of Commissioners voted to authorize a $1,000 credit card for District Court use, approving a resolution that lets court staff carry a county card for lodging and other court-related expenses.

District Court staffer Tina Devokes told the board she has had repeated problems getting hotels to accept non‑present payment methods for court travel and asked for a county card to avoid paying out of pocket. “I have tried everything to try to get it paid for by the card … they won't allow that,” Devokes said during public comment.

Commissioners discussed an appropriate limit and settled on $1,000 after brief questions about larger purchases. Commissioner Irvin made the motion to authorize the card and Commissioner Wharton seconded; a roll call vote recorded yes votes from Anderson, Wharton, Irvin and Crandall.

Devoves asked whether a formal resolution would be required for the issuer; commissioners agreed to a resolution authorizing the chair to sign so the card could be issued promptly. The board amended its motion to include that resolution language and approved the amended motion by roll call.

The approved action covers issuance and establishes the $1,000 limit; commissioners said purchases above that amount would require staff to contact the county clerk. The board did not set additional procedural requirements at the meeting.

The resolution and related application paperwork are to be completed by court staff and routed for the chair's signature so the card can be issued.